A sculpture serving as an homage to Pope John Paul II.

A visionary Italian architect created an impressive cluster of concrete structures for a family's private tomb.

A mysterious ancient elephant said to possess magic powers is now the symbol of a Sicilian city.

One of the oldest and most significant collections of Ancient Egyptian archeology outside of Egypt.

A tree that defies gravity grows in an ancient ruin.

The intricate geometry inside this Baroque-style dome was designed to create "terror of the human soul."

This clifftop arch is a natural stunner.

Now an entertainment complex, the Lingotto building was once an avant-garde auto factory with a test track on the roof.

The remains of this 2nd-century Roman temple are incorporated into a modern building.

A lavish 16th-century mansion filled with spectacular staircases, fantastic frescoes, and gorgeous gardens.

A brutalist gem towering over the heart of Milan.

The world's oldest surviving anatomical theater, where "the dead are pleased to help the living."

A space dedicated to contemporary art and culture, co-chaired by fashion icon Miuccia Prada.

Gods clash with machines in a power plant regenerated as a museum.

The world's most active stratovolcano is almost always erupting.

More sculpture than building, this architecturally significant temple was built on the spot of Saint Peter's crucifixion.

This ancient market is often referred to as the oldest shopping mall in the world.

Pilgrimage site for star-crossed lovers.

This bronze boar's snout has been rubbed to a golden sheen by visitors seeking good fortune.

This palatial spiral staircase was so unusual the name "snail" was given to the noble family who built it.

This ritzy Italian market is built around a statue of an unforgiven heretic who was burned for his belief in an endless universe.

This Venice bookstore has resigned itself to constant flooding by keeping its books in bathtubs and boats.

Architectureal fantasy quarter of Rome.

This hidden Art Nouveau courtyard is an opulent feast for the eyes.